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Comcast RISE to Award 100 Small Businesses in Southern Colorado with Grant Packages that Include a $5,000 Monetary Grant, Marketing and Technology Resources, and More

Comcast Colorado

Today, Comcast announced 100 businesses in Southern Colorado will receive comprehensive grant packages that include business coaching sessions, education resources, a $5,000 monetary grant, creative production, and technology makeovers. Comcast RISE is committed to supporting the growth of all small businesses, while advancing the objectives of diversity, equity and inclusion, as well as community investment. The program is built to help businesses and their communities thrive with a focus on economic growth. “Comcast is committed to supporting and empowering small businesses in our communities,” said J.D. Keller, senior vice president of Comcast’s Mountain West Region. “The Comcast RISE program will deliver innovative and impactful resources that can make a lasting impact on small businesses in Pueblo.” Beginning on May 1, and through May 31, eligible businesses in Pueblo and Pueblo County can apply for a grant package at www.ComcastRISE.com. A total of 100 grants in Southern Colorado, and 500 grants overall, will be announced in August 2024, bringing the total number of recipients to date to 14,000. “Small businesses drive innovation, create jobs, and enrich the fabric of our community,” said Pueblo Mayor Heather Graham. “Through dedicated support and investments like the Comcast RISE program, entrepreneurs are empowered to grow their businesses.” Comcast RISE was created in November 2020 to help small businesses hardest hit by COVID-19, from bakeries and barber shops to childcare centers and cleaning services, by providing the grants needed to survive and recover. The program has evolved from helping businesses survive the pandemic, to helping businesses and their communities thrive with a focus on economic growth. Grant packages will include: CONSULTATION - General business assessment and coaching that provides business owners with recommendations on how to grow their businesses. EDUCATION RESOURCES - 12-month access to online entrepreneurship courses, learning modules and resources for small business owners. MONETARY GRANT - $5,000 monetary grant. CREATIVE PRODUCTION & MEDIA - Turnkey production of a 30-second TV commercial, plus a media strategy consultation and a 180-day media schedule. (Taxes and other fees may apply for production and media services.) TECHNOLOGY MAKEOVER - Computer equipment and Internet, Voice and Cybersecurity services for 12 months. (Taxes and other fees may apply for tech makeover services.) In addition, any small business owner can visit the Comcast RISE destination on X1 featuring aggregated small business news, tips, insights, and more. X1 customers can say “Comcast RISE” into the voice remote. Comcast RISE is part of Project UP, the company’s $1 billion commitment to advance digital equity through programs and community partnerships that connect people to the Internet, advance economic mobility and open doors for the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, storytellers and creators. More information and the applications to apply for either the grant program or marketing and technology services are available at www.ComcastRISE.com. About Comcast CorporationComcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. About Comcast Business Comcast Business offers a broad suite of technology solutions to keep businesses of all sizes ready for what’s next. With a range of offerings including connectivity, secure networking, advanced cybersecurity, and unified communications solutions, Comcast Business is partnering with business and technology leaders across industries and integrating Masergy, a leader in software defined networking, to help drive businesses forward. Backed by a next-generation network, Comcast Business has been recognized for its growth, innovation, and leadership in global secure networking. For more information, call 800-501-6000. Follow on Twitter @ComcastBusiness and on other social media networks at http://business.comcast.com/social. About EffectvEffectv, the advertising sales division of Comcast Cable, helps local, regional and national advertisers use the best of digital with the power of TV to grow their business. It provides multiscreen marketing solutions to make advertising campaigns more effective and easier to execute. Headquartered in New York with offices throughout the country, Effectv has a presence in 66 markets with nearly 30 million owned and represented subscribers. For more information, visit effectv.com. Contact Details Leslie Oliver +1 303-810-6326 leslie_oliver@comcast.com Company Website https://colorado.comcast.com/

April 09, 2024 11:00 AM Mountain Daylight Time

Leading U.K. Greeting Card Company Moonpig Unveils New U.S. Gift Card Collection

Moonpig

Moonpig, the leading U.K. online personalized greeting card and gift company, today announced the launch of gift cards add-ons, which are printed directly inside the greeting card during the creation process, just in time for Mother’s Day. To shepherd the brand’s efforts of revising and reinventing the antiquated greeting card category with an extensive range of customized options for every occasion, Moonpig’s continues to lead innovation in the $19+ billion greeting card industry. Moonpig’s new feature will now allow customers to add gift cards from partners such as Cheesecake Factory, Sephora, Macy’s, Barnes & Noble, Build-a-Bear, Roblox, Doordash and more, all of which can be printed during card creation. Alongside the launch of other exciting features like audio and video messaging and group cards, Moonpig’s new add-ons will continue supporting the brand’s mission to reach and engage U.S. consumers through the intimate experience of card giving. "With Mother’s Day right around the corner for Americans, we are excited to announce Moonpig’s gift card add-on launch in the U.S,” said Alexander Toft, General Manager, International at Moonpig. “ At Moonpig, we’re all about celebrating those heartfelt life moments and ensuring every card is as unique as the person receiving it. With the launch of this new add-on, Moonpig is continuing to reinvent the category by putting the fun and excitement back into card giving. Since its launch in 2000, Moonpig has been a long-standing leader in the U.K. greeting card market. Recognized for its innovative approach to personalized card giving, Moonpig provides an extensive range of cards and customizable features, with technology at the forefront of the brand’s easy-to-use online platform and app. Packed with fun and savvy add-ons, Moonpig’s intuitive design tools provide a user-friendly process to curate highly-customized cards by incorporating personal touches such as photos, heartfelt messages, stylish designs and templates. This seamless online experience allows customers to easily create the perfect, personalized card with the ability to send anytime, from anywhere - and capabilities to receive it as soon as the next day. Moonpig’s expansion efforts come at a time when the demand for personalized greeting cards is on the rise, especially with Millennials. With Americans constantly seeking out meaningful ways to connect with friends and family, personalized cards have emerged as a popular choice to express individualized sentiments for all sorts of occasions. Moonpig's expansive range of cards caters to a diverse array of tastes and preferences, ensuring that finding the perfect card and gift for every special event has never been easier. Whether it's a birthday, anniversary, holiday, or just because, Moonpig offers a personalized solution for every moment worth celebrating. Moonpig’s personalized cards start at $4.99. To celebrate the launch of the gift card offering, Moonpig is also offering new customers a free standard card (no gift card purchase required), by using code USLAUNCH to redeem at checkout through April 14, 2024. For more information about Moonpig and its U.S. offerings, please visit moonpig.com/us/, or follow on Instagram @moonpigusa. About Moonpig At Moonpig, we’re all about celebrating those heartfelt life moments. You know the ones we mean…the big birthdays, new arrivals, surprise engagements and the just becauses. Big or small, we love them all. And we’re so proud to be the ones helping you connect to the people you care about most. With our ever-growing range of cards and thoughtful gifts we’ve got just the thing to make their day. Combine this with top-notch tech and an app full of fun features, and it’s never been easier to send a card from the palm of your hand and share some love wherever you are. Contact Details Powers PR Alex Wollman alex@powers-pr.com Company Website https://www.moonpig.com/us/

April 09, 2024 09:06 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Benefits and Strategies for Maintaining Healthy, Sustainable Greenspaces

YourUpdateTV

Homeowners are once again embracing the outdoors and taking steps to make sure their lawns are in top shape for the summer season. Recently, an expert from ScottsMiracle-Gro, Dr. Lakshmy Gopinath, and Professor at Utah State University, Dr. Kelly Kopp, participated in a nationwide satellite media tour to provide tips for establishing and maintaining a healthy lawn. A video accompanying this announcement is available HERE. There are several things homeowners can do when it comes to sustainably establishing and maintaining their lawns this year. First, it’s important to embrace turfgrass specific to your region, as grass types can vary widely depending on your particular climate. For example, cool season grasses like bluegrasses and fescues are suited best for the Northeast, while warm-season grasses like bermudagrass or buffalo grass are best for Southern regions. For another interesting option, you can opt for native turfgrass varieties that typically require less water and maintenance. Second, be proactive about lawn care. Spring is when your lawn is waking up from dormant winter conditions, and is an essential time to seed and feed your lawn to ensure lush conditions later in the season. Seed with Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed, then feed your lawn with Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food. When considering the first watering for your lawn, try to delay as long as possible. This will put stress on your turf and drive deeper roots, ultimately encouraging a stronger and more resilient lawn. Finally, mow at the right height. Grass mowed at the proper height develops a deeper root system to better find water and nutrients in the soil. Taller grass also shades the soil keeping it cooler - so try to set your mower to one of the highest settings to get a 3-4 inch cut. There are many benefits to having sustainable green space, including: ● Improved ecosystems: Natural turfgrass has many benefits for the environment. Turfgrass absorbs carbon dioxide, releases oxygen, traps dust and dirt, reduces erosion by absorbing stormwater runoff, and can help protect nearby bodies of water. Greenspaces also have a cooling effect on the surrounding environment, which can offset urban heat. ● Improved quality of life: Natural green spaces provide immense health and wellness benefits for humans through physical and social activities, stress reduction, play, and reduced noise levels. ● Reduce water use with water-efficient turfgrasses: Choose turfgrass varieties specifically bred for water efficiency, such as fine fescues or buffalo grass, to save on your water bill. These grasses have evolved to thrive with minimal irrigation, helping conserve water resources while maintaining a lush, green lawn. ● Replenishing groundwater reserves: Natural turfgrass has the ability to absorb rainwater through a process called infiltration and help restore groundwater reserves, which is frequently tapped into by municipalities. For more information, visit Scotts.com Dr. Lakshmy Gopinath Hailing from southern India, Dr. Lakshmy Gopinath holds a Ph.D. in Crop Science from Oklahoma State University. Her research during her Ph.D. focused on turfgrass stress physiology and management. Currently serving as the Grass Seed Scientist at Scotts, she dedicates her expertise to developing innovative seeding products and options for sustainable and eco-friendly lawns. Outside of work, Lakshmy enjoys exploring nature trails with her beloved beagle, Newton. About Kelly Kopp Dr. Kelly Kopp is a Professor and Extension Specialist in the Plants, Soils & Climate department at Utah State University (USU), where her research efforts are focused on plant water use efficiency, sustainable turfgrass management, landscape water conservation, and irrigation technologies. She is the Director of USU's Center for Water Efficient Landscaping and is board member and past president of the Utah Water Conservation Forum. From 2007-2016, she served on the Board of Directors of the Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE), an international organization promoting all aspects of water efficiency, serving as Chair from 2014-2016. Her service with AWE gave her the opportunity to work with numerous members of the water and irrigation industries, USEPA’s WaterSense team, non-profit organizations in the water sector, and other governmental agencies. She continues to work with these groups in pursuit of water use efficiency in the state of Utah, the Intermountain West, and beyond. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

April 08, 2024 01:40 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Video

Non-addictive options to Opioids: Exploring Pain Relief Options Before Taking Opioids

YourUpdateTV

A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/RjjYJwM-XFc While opioid dispensing rates in the U.S. are slowly ticking down, they remain elevated compared with rates in other countries. The U.S. makes up only 4.4% of the world’s population, but it consumes over 80% of the world’s opioids Luckily, consumers today have more options than ever before for powerful, nonaddictive pain relief as they navigate their unique positions on the overall pain spectrum, including but not limited to over-the-counter (OTC) medications, physical therapy, medication and chiropractic care. Mothers Against Prescription Drug Abuse (MAPDA) in partnership with Aleve®, a marquee pain relief product from Bayer indicated for minor pain, launched “The Painful Truth,” campaign developed to encourage consumers to explore, with their doctors, pain relief options such as OTC products before taking opioids, when appropriate. “The Painful Truth” campaign launched with a film featuring real pain sufferers who are at crossroads in their pain relief journeys and seeking guidance. The featured patients believe they are participating in a video call with a pain expert who will help them explore their options, but as the conversation progresses, our “expert” reveals that they are in fact in recovery from opioid use disorder. At this critical juncture in their care, the patients are encouraged to consider different pain relief options. A nationwide media tour was conducted on March 26th featuring Mary Bono, Co-Founder, Chair of the Board of Directors & CEO of Mother’s Against Drug Abuse (MAPDA) and Matt Robinson, A voice from “The Painful Truth” campaign and Co-Host of Till the Wheels Fall Off (TWFO) podcast. Topics that were discussed included: · What people need to know about the pain relief options available to them before taking opioids when appropriate and after discussion with their healthcare provider. · Matt’s first-person experience with opioid use disorder. · The work Mother’s Against Drug Abuse has done to address the issue. · How patients can choose and advocate for themselves as it relates to pain management. For more information, visit aleve.com/thepainfultruth. About with Mothers Against Prescription Drug Abuse (MAPDA) Founded in 2011, Mothers Against Prescription Drug Abuse is a nationally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focused on policy advocacy, opioid use disorder (OUD) prevention education, and opioid awareness programs. For more information, visit mapda.net. About Bayer Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of health care and nutrition. In line with its mission, “Health for all, Hunger for none,” the company’s products and services are designed to help people and the planet thrive by supporting efforts to master the major challenges presented by a growing and aging global population. Bayer is committed to driving sustainable development and generating a positive impact with its businesses. At the same time, the Group aims to increase its earning power and create value through innovation and growth. The Bayer brand stands for trust, reliability and quality throughout the world. In fiscal 2023, the Group employed around 100,000 people and had sales of 47.6 billion euros. R&D expenses before special items amounted to 5.8 billion euros. For more information, go to www.bayer.com. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

April 05, 2024 10:39 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Annette Clayton Joins Flash Board of Directors

Flash Parking

Flash, the leading digital ecosystem provider connecting drivers to parking and EV charging experiences, today announced Annette Clayton, chairwoman and former CEO of Schneider Electric, has joined the company’s board of directors. Ms. Clayton has decades of automotive, technology and energy industry experience and brings an extensive track record guiding corporate strategy and operations for growth companies and pioneering startups. “We are incredibly fortunate to welcome Annette to our board of directors,” said Dan Sharplin, Flash’s CEO and Chairman. “She is an accomplished leader who has dedicated her career to companies that are transforming their respective industries, and her talents and expertise will be invaluable to our next chapter of growth, particularly when it comes to meeting the needs of modern drivers through the next wave of EV adoption.” Ms. Clayton joins Flash’s board of directors after recently concluding her tenure as CEO of Schneider Electric North America. During that time, Ms. Clayton led business strategy for the region, representing 30,000 employees and sales of more than $11 billion in fiscal year 2022. “Working with innovators like Flash that reimagine an industry is the work I love,” said Ms. Clayton regarding her appointment. “I have followed Flash’s evolution from its startup days and think the current moment is among its most exciting – Flash has done the heavy lifting and is poised to bring all the players together to set the new standard for a first-of-its-kind digital ecosystem.” Ms. Clayton currently serves on the public boards of Duke Energy, NXP Semiconductors, Oshkosh Corporation and Nordson Corporation. Ms. Clayton’s prior board service includes National Electrical Manufacturers Association, National Association of Manufacturers and many of Schneider Electric’s Energy-as-a-Service joint ventures. She was also a member of Rewiring America’s CEO’s for Electrification coalition for business leaders. Prior to Schneider Electric, she served in senior management roles for Dell, where she led the transformation of its global supply chain and fulfillment model, and General Motors Corporation, including president of Saturn Corporation, where she oversaw strategic direction, financial accountability, and profitability. Ms. Clayton holds a bachelor’s degree in general engineering from Wright State University, a master’s degree in engineering management from the University of Dayton and has completed the London Business School executive development program. About Flash Flash is a pioneering technology company bringing seamless parking and EV charging experiences to drivers through a first-of-its-kind digital ecosystem. Flash’s platform connects reservable parking and charging in the apps drivers use every day with garage, surface lot, event, and valet parking locations — connected and controlled via a cloud-based operating system with unrivaled intelligence. Customer-obsessed brands partner with Flash to deliver digital, easy-to-use, reliable, and increasingly frictionless experiences to drivers eager to pay for a solution that eliminates wasted time, excess emissions, and stress from driving. The solution has arrived. Visit www.flashparking.com to learn more. Contact Details Flash Parking Ray Young +1 512-694-6097 ray@razorsharppr.com Company Website https://www.flashparking.com/

April 04, 2024 03:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

LOTUS NETWORK BRINGS THE “SHMEALER” TO THE FRONT RANGE FOR ITS SPRING CONNECTOR EVENT

Lotus Network

Lotus Network, a Denver-based non-profit organization providing opportunities for all women to create meaningful connections, announced today its 2024 Spring Connector event, Reigniting the Women’s Spirit, featuring the “Shmealer” (shame healer) Sarah Lajeunesse. An award-winning coach, writer and speaker, Lajeunesse brings Reigniting the Women’s Spirit to the U.S. for the first time at this Lotus Network event. The discussion will explore how the weight of perfectionism, people-pleasing, societal, cultural and gender expectations and pressures, are deeply rooted in guilt and shame. Touching upon the ways these self-conscious emotions can prevent a woman from experiencing a greater, richer quality of life, this timely talk will explore the yearning so many women experience in wanting to feel whole and empowered. Through a hilariously liberating and thought-provoking discussion about uncomfortable emotions, “ Reigniting the Women’s Spirit” is aimed at helping women: Identify and challenge their own personal limiting beliefs and unrelenting patterns that keep them stuck Set healthy boundaries and communicate them effectively with others Cultivate self-compassion and self-care practices that nurture well-being and happiness Uncover individual strengths for achieving self-confidence Lajeunesse will provide tips on how to release the heavy, unnecessary burden of shame that has continued to plague many women for years, decades and even generations. She will also address ways to stop the unconscious passing down of guilt and shame repercussions throughout life. The Spring Connector event will be held on Tuesday, May 7, 2024 from 7:00–9:00 P.M. at the Leach Center for the Performing Arts on the Colorado Academy campus, 3800 South Pierce Street, Denver, CO, 80235. Lotus Network’s hope for the event is that all women – mothers, daughters, sisters and friends – become more empowered to make important and necessary journeys to reclaim their voices, choices and lives by releasing guilt and shame to better trust themselves. “Reflecting Lotus Network’s founding mantra of ‘It’s Never Too Late...,’ we bring the Front Range a premier event to which we believe so many women can relate. Empowering women through connection is a global, topical conversation that we are bringing to the forefront through Sarah’s first U.S. discussion. Our goal for this event – and all our programming – is to truly connect women and provide them platforms and tools for learning, growth and self-discovery,” Lotus Network Co-founders Lisa Cook and Leslie Heins explained. Tickets are $35 for Reigniting the Women’s Spirit Event and can be purchased at Connector Event 2024 Featuring Sarah Lajeunesse - Lotus Network There also will be a VIP Meet & Greet event with Lajeunesse on Monday, May 6 th. In addition, the event will be offered via a virtual platform for out-of-state participants. For more information on ticket purchases and the event, please contact sue@lotusnetwork.org. HealthONE Rose Women's Hospital is the sponsor behind Lotus Network’s Spring Connector event. About Sarah Lajeunesse Sarah Lajeunesse is an award-winning coach, writer, speaker and “shmealer” (shame healer) whose work is devoted to helping women heal the guilt, shame and past experiences that prevent them from moving toward a greater, richer quality of life. From working with, speaking to and supporting hundreds of individuals across several countries, ranging from teens to those in their 60’s and in various phases and stages of life, she’s witnessed the long-term damage and detrimental impacts the weight of shame can carry. Visit the Shmealer at https://www.sarahlajeunesse.com/. About Lotus Network In 2019, best friends and business partners Lisa Cook and Leslie Heins founded Lotus Network, a nonprofit organization raising awareness of purposeful living by inspiring women of all ages to live in authentic and gratifying ways through connection. Lotus Network encourages women to start their next chapter by taking on new challenges – physically, mentally and spiritually – by spreading the message that age is not a limitation. Lotus Network’s pillars include connection, empowerment, integrity, optimism and purpose. Please visit https://lotusnetwork.org and connect with the organization on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn to learn more. Contact Details Susan J. Turkell +1 303-766-4343 sturkell@pairelations.com Company Website https://lotusnetwork.org/

April 03, 2024 08:00 AM Mountain Daylight Time

Korean Beauty Brand MIXIK SKIN Launches With Industry First, All-Mist Skincare Line

MIXIK SKIN

MIXIK SKIN, a Korean beauty brand based in Los Angeles, launched today on a mission to break down the barriers of skincare, making it accessible for all, irrespective of age, gender, or skin type. Teaming up with first retail partner Thirteen Lune, MIXIK SKIN’s innovative all-mist skincare line introduces a minimalist yet effective skincare collection designed to simplify routines while delivering exceptional results. Founder Sunny Oh created MIXIK SKIN out of an essential need for a convenient, sanitary, and travel-friendly skincare solution that was fun yet effective. Inspired by Korean beauty practices, Oh joined forces with co-founders Christine Moon and Lena Park, who recognized the transformative potential of mists in skincare, especially for those with active lifestyles, and embarked on a mission to integrate the ease of mists into every facet of skincare rituals. "Society often dictates rigid standards of beauty and skincare, but we believe that everyone deserves access to products that enhance their natural beauty without limitations," said Sunny Oh, CEO and Co-Founder of MIXIK SKIN. "With MIXIK SKIN, we're not just offering sanitary skincare; we're offering empowerment – the freedom to embrace your unique skin journey confidently, conveniently, and consistently." MIKIK SKIN blends the best of both worlds with roots in Los Angeles and production and innovation from Korea. At MIXIK, crafting skincare solutions from luxury-quality ingredients at an affordable rate is imperative to its ethos as the brand aims to cultivate a diverse and inclusive beauty landscape, ensuring that everyone’s skincare needs are addressed at every price point. "As a Korean-American, I've always felt a deep connection to both cultures, and MIXIK SKIN is a reflection of that fusion," said Christine Moon, Managing Director and Co-Founder of MIXIK SKIN. "We're proud to bring the essence of Korean beauty to a global audience, while also championing diversity in an industry that often lacks representation." MIXIK SKIN's debut collection features four essential products: the Cleansing Oil, Jelly Toner, Botanical Serum, and Hydra Cream, all formulated with the rejuvenating properties of blue agave and rosewater. Crafted with a commitment to ethical practices, all MIXIK SKIN products are cruelty-free and vegan, embodying the brand's core values of inclusivity, simplicity, and quality. "We believe that skincare should be both effective and enjoyable, which is why we've curated a line that prioritizes simplicity without compromising on results," said Lena Park, Brand Director and Co-Founder of MIXIK SKIN. "Our products are designed to fit seamlessly into any routine, providing nourishment and hydration for every skin type." MIXIK SKIN is available to shop at www.mixikskin.com and at Thirteen Lune. For more information and updates, visit www.mixikskin.com and follow @mixikskin on social media. Hi-res images, interviews, and media samples are available upon request. About MIXIK SKIN: MIXIK SKIN is a Korean beauty brand based in Los Angeles, dedicated to breaking down the barriers of skincare and making it accessible for all. Founded by Sunny Oh, Christine Moon, and Lena Park, MIXIK SKIN blends the best of Korean skincare wisdom with modern innovation, offering a range of minimalist yet effective products designed for every skin type and gender identity. With a commitment to inclusivity, simplicity, and quality, MIXIK SKIN empowers individuals to embrace their unique skin journey with confidence. Contact Details Six One Agency Cami Carlson camryn@six-one.com

April 02, 2024 08:03 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Consumer Discretionary Sector SPDR Fund (XLY): Tapping Into the Luxury Consumer Market

Select Sector SPDR

The Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLY) offers investors a unique opportunity to gain exposure to the high-end retail market. XLY offers exposure to the consumer discretionary sector, making it an appealing option for investors looking to tap into the potential of profit margins from high-priced goods and services. This sector includes companies involved in the production and distribution of non-essential goods and services such as electronics, travel, dining out, vacations, video games, toys, and entertainment. A Look At The Top Holdings* Currently XLY's holdings include a comprehensive list of high-performing stocks from industry-leading companies like Amazon (23.14%), Tesla (12.85%), Home Depot (10.07%), McDonald's (4.24%) and Lowe’s (3.96%). These companies cater not only to the luxury goods market, but also to discretionary spending in other areas, ensuring that investors can benefit from a diverse range of consumer spending patterns. Since its establishment in 1998, the XLY fund has amassed over $20 billion in assets under management, with an investor-friendly expense ratio of 0.09%**. The fund aims to replicate the performance of the S&P 500 Consumer Discretionary Index, providing a comprehensive view of the consumer discretionary space, allowing investors to benefit from the sector's potential growth. Going Strong Year Over Year With the economy on the mend, the consumer discretionary sector is poised to thrive. As consumer confidence strengthens, discretionary spending is anticipated to rise, potentially favoring companies in this sector. In summary, the XLY fund presents a unique method to invest in the high-end retail market. It's an opportunity to delve into the spending habits of wealthy consumers, without the necessity to scrutinize individual companies. With its diversified portfolio and cost-effectiveness, the XLY fund is a noteworthy consideration for investors aiming to harness the potential of the consumer discretionary sector. DISCLAIMER: This is a work of research and should not be taken as investment or financial advice. Therefore, Select Sector SPDRs or the publisher is not liable for any decision made based on the publication. About the Company: Select Sector SPDR ETFs offer flexibility and customization opportunities. Many investors have similar outlooks, but no two are exactly alike. Select Sector SPDR ETFs let investors select the sectors that best meet their investment goals. *Holdings, Weightings & Assets as of 3/31/24 subject to change **Ordinary brokerage fees apply DISCLOSURES The S&P 500 Index is an unmanaged index of 500 common stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. stock market. The index is heavily weighted toward stocks with large market capitalizations and represents approximately two-thirds of the total market value of all domestic common stocks. The S&P 500 Index figures do not reflect any fees, expenses or taxes. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, fees and expenses before investing. One may not invest directly in an index. Transparent ETFs provide daily disclosure of portfolio holdings and weightings All ETFs are subject to risk, including loss of principal. Sector ETF products are also subject to sector risk and nondiversification risk, which generally will result in greater price fluctuations than the overall market. Diversification does not eliminate risk. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus, which contains this and other information, call 1-866-SECTOR-ETF (732-8673) or visit www.sectorspdrs.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. Media Contact: Company: Select Sector SPDRs Contact: Dan Dolan* Address: 1290 Broadway, Suite 1000, Denver, CO 80203 Country: United States Email: dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Website: https://www.sectorspdrs.com/ *Dan Dolan is a Registered Representative of ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is the distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. SEL007402 EXP 5/31/24 Contact Details Dan Dolan +1 203-935-8103 dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Company Website https://www.sectorspdrs.com/

April 02, 2024 05:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

News Release

Shareholder Group and Gender Ideology Opponent to Press Disney on Discrimination at Company’s Annual Meeting

NLPC

National Legal and Policy Center, an investor in The Walt Disney Company, and healthcare accountability group Do No Harm, will present a shareholder proposal at the iconic media and entertainment corporation’s annual meeting on April 3. The measure asks the company to investigate its discriminatory pay and benefits policies – specifically addressing where employees affected by gender-switching advocacy have been psychologically or medically harmed, without providing remedial care – and reporting to shareholders why such compensation gaps exist at an allegedly tolerant company. Speaking at the Disney meeting in support of the proposal will be Chloe Cole, patient advocate for Do No Harm, who has testified before legislative bodies nationwide in opposition to gender ideology and its destructive health consequences. Ms. Cole will address the company’s board of directors, including beleaguered CEO Robert Iger, and tell her story about her difficulties in finding medical care and insurance coverage in her efforts to “de-transition,” after trying earlier in her life to switch from the biological sex she was born with. Ahead of the Disney meeting, NLPC released a one-minute video to highlight the shareholder proposal. The corporate and government watchdog also filed a white paper with the Securities and Exchange Commission earlier this month to more fully explain the necessity for the company to investigate its discriminatory policies. “Disney has been so proud about its 100-percent score on the Corporate Equality Index, designed by the pro-LGBTQIA+ Human Rights Campaign, which requires companies to cover sex change treatments in their health insurance offerings,” said Paul Chesser, director of NLPC’s Corporate Integrity Project. “Now we call upon Mr. Iger to lead the way for Corporate America to provide equal care for those who have suffered physical harm as a result, and who want bodily restoration. Besides the damage they have suffered, they are also discriminated against.” As NLPC points out in its shareholder proposal, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission considers failure to provide equivalent pay and benefits based on categories including “gender identity” and “sexual orientation” as discriminatory. Even the Securities and Exchange Commission agreed with NLPC that de-transitioning individuals fit under such classifications when considering unfairness in corporate compensation practices. In its opposition statement (p. 104 at link) to the proposal, Disney alleges that NLPC is just trying to “generate attention” with a “narrow focus…to advance a limited agenda.” “Disney acts as if people like me don’t exist,” said Chloe Cole. “I intend to make sure the board and Mr. Iger hear that the company’s irrational gender ideology policies are actually destructive, and that I am a victim of policies like it. De-transitioners like me are not going away. With the numbers of LGBTQIA+ workers at the company who have sought ill-advised sex changes, you can bet that litigation over deception, and discriminatory benefits policies, won’t be far behind.” You can read NLPC’s shareholder proposal at its website. Learn more about Do No Harm at its website. ### For more information or to schedule an interview with Paul Chesser, contact Dan Rene at 202-329-8357 or drene@nlpc.org. Please visit http://www.nlpc.org. Founded in 1991, the National Legal and Policy Center promotes ethics in public life through research, investigation, education and legal action. Contact Details National Legal and Policy Center Dan Rene +1 202-329-8357 drene@nlpc.org Company Website http://www.nlpc.org

April 01, 2024 01:15 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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